Press Release

 August 25, 2003

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GOVERNOR DOUGLAS DELIVERS DRUG COST MESSAGE

Vermonters may be able to save between 30% and 75% on their prescription medications just by visiting their doctor’s office, Gov. Jim Douglas says in a new television message that begins airing this week.

Gov. Douglas appears in the 30-second spot, which will air on WCAX-TV (Channel 3, Burlington), WPTZ-TV (Channel 5, Plattsburgh, N.Y.), and WNNE-TV (Channel 31, White River Junction) until mid-September. Standing in a doctor’s exam room, the governor tells viewers, “Whenever my doctor wants to prescribe a medication for me, I ask if a lower-cost option or generic is available.” These drugs have been shown to be just as effective as advertised brand-names, but cost anywhere from 30% to 75% less, the governor notes.

Gov. Douglas suggests that viewers also ask their doctor if a lower-cost medication is available. “You’ll feel better knowing that you’re getting the medicine you need and saving money at the same time,” he says.

The governor’s television spot, and a similar 60-second radio public service message, are part of an educational campaign launched by a coalition of five groups representing physicians, consumers, Vermont’s largest hospital, and state government. Participating organizations are the Vermont Medical Society, AARP Vermont, Fletcher Allen Health Care, the Community of Vermont Elders (COVE) and the Vermont Department of Prevention, Assistance, Transition, and Health Access (PATH).

The organizations have been working together in an effort to lower drug costs for all Vermonters. The coalition has developed the “Vermont Guide to Controlling Drug Costs,” an information card that outlines steps Vermonters can take to keep medications affordable. The card is being distributed to patients by doctors, pharmacists, and other health care professionals.

AARP Vermont has also sponsored daily newspaper advertisements, informing seniors that “recommended daily dosage doesn’t mean ‘only take what you can afford.’” Generic prescription drugs offer virtually the same quality and benefits of more expensive brand-name drugs, but cost much less, the ad tells readers. Seniors are urged to ask their doctor if there is a lower-cost equivalent available, before he or she prescribes an expensive brand-name drug.